Assumption: "The MIAM is just a box to tick before I can go to court."
1 min readThis content reflects observational insights and lived community experiences. It does not constitute legal advice — always consult a qualified professional for your specific circumstances.
What People Expect
Litigants believe the Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting is a formality that has no real bearing on their case.
Court Reality
The MIAM is a legal requirement before you can file a C100. You cannot skip it unless an exemption applies — and those exemptions must be properly evidenced, not simply claimed. If you are a victim of domestic abuse, your support worker or caseworker can help you evidence the exemption correctly. If mediation is assessed as appropriate, shuttle mediation means you and the other party never have to be in the same room. Courts look favourably on parties who have genuinely engaged with the process.
Download the card and post it on Facebook, LinkedIn, or wherever you're active. Every share helps another litigant find this before their hearing.
The Gap?
"The MIAM is just a box to tick before I can go to court."
Court Reality
The MIAM is a legal requirement before you can file a C100. You cannot skip it unless an exemption applies — and those exemptions must be properly evidenced, not simply claimed.
Seen a gap between what you thought and the reality? Share yours.
familycourtbridge.org
Navigating court alone?
A McKenzie Friend can help you make sense of this in the context of your own case.
Find your supportCookie Consent
We use essential cookies only, such as remembering this choice and keeping you signed in if you create an account. No tracking or analytics cookies are used.